Craig Lloyd, Murrindindi Shire CEO, this week. Photo: Ash Long

Mental health services for Kinglake region people look likely to become more freely available, Murrindindi Shire CEO Craig Lloyd has announced.

“Improving access to mental health services in the Kinglake Ranges, and in particular the restrictions preventing residents accessing nearby services in the Melbourne suburbs, has been a priority of Council for some time,” Mr Lloyd told last Wednesday’s Council meeting held at Yea.

“The anniversary of the 2009 Bushfires is a difficult time for so many in our community and access to appropriate, local support is essential.

“We have today received a letter from Martin Foley, Minister for Mental Health, confirming that changes to facilitate access to the nearby services in Melbourne have been put in place through until June 12, 2019.

“Council will continue to advocate for this arrangement to be made permanent and have arrange a meeting in late February with the Minister,” Mr Lloyd said.